Expanding in Wahneta: Plaza Mexico Plans Expansion Project

Published: Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at 11:33 p.m. Last Modified: Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at 11:33 p.m.

WAHNETA | A project that will increase retail space in Wahneta can have wide-ranging impact on this unincorporated area south of Winter Haven that is home to many Latino families.

The owners of Plaza Mexico, a grocery and taco stand on Rifle Range Road, plan to increase the size of the grocery, add retail outlets, and build apartments and other multi-use spaces for people wanting to start their own businesses.

Remigio Gamez, 39, who owns Plaza Mexico with his brother, Carlos, 53, said construction of the first phase should begin in December. Plaza Mexico sits on a little more than 15 acres owned by the brothers, who immigrated from Mexico and became U.S. citizens.

Carlos Gamez opened the store 13 years ago with his brother-in-law while Remigio Gamez was studying accounting at USF. In 2004, the brothers took over the business and decided to open a taco shop outside.

Plans call for the construction of a new grocery and retail store more than triple the current 12,000 square feet. The 400-square-foot taco stand and picnic area located in front of the current store would move to the front of the new grocery location and a laundry facility would be added.

The first phase of construction is expected to be complete in February 2016.

"It is exciting to see us moving closer to the future," said Gamez. "It's a long process, but it will bring a lot of needed services to the area."

Ana Martinez-Hubert, a planner for the county, said the project will have an impact on local residents.

"The owners of the property want to create a living and working space that is accessible to the community of Wahneta," she said. "By increasing the size of the market, they will be able to carry more goods and offer more services. They will have a place to eat. They are planning to add a gas station, apartments and multi-use space for people who want to start a small business and need to have a place to do it. It's a very comprehensive project that will come in phases."

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Expanding in Wahneta: Plaza Mexico Plans Expansion Project